Corangamite Shire Council Mayor Ruth Gstrein has thanked the State Government for its $6m commitment to the Port Campbell Town Centre Revitalisation project.
Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas announced the funding from the Regional Infrastructure Fund yesterday.
The project will enhance the amenity of the town, improve the visitor experience, encourage longer stays, and better disperse visitors through the town.
Benefits will include improved traffic flow and safety, greater recognition of the environmental and character value of the town, accessible paths and infrastructure, job creation, opportunities for new retail/hospitality businesses, better outdoor public spaces, retention and increase in visitor spend, improved liveability and community pride.
Mayor Ruth Gstrein thanked the Government and said the Port Campbell project had been Council's top priority for several years.
"Port Campbell has been particularly hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting downturn in tourism over the past 18 months," Cr Gstrein said.
"This project will be a way to rejuvenate and reinvigorate the town for when tourism returns."
Cr Gstrein said the redevelopment would be the biggest project Council had ever undertaken.
"We have been in conversations with Member for Wannon Dan Tehan and are hopeful that Council's funding application for $5.6M from the Federal Government's Building Better Regions Fund will be successful, allowing for all stages of the project to be completed."
Coastal Ward Councillor Jamie Vogels thanked the Port Campbell community for its support throughout the process.
"There have been multiple rounds of public consultation during the planning of this redevelopment. People gave a lot of their free time by attending meetings and providing feedback.
"I also want to thank former Councillor Simon Illingworth and the local community for all the work that went into planning stages of this project.
"The design will allow residents to go about their daily lives safely and comfortably while also supporting businesses that cater to domestic and international visitors.
"When the work is done, it will ensure Port Campbell provides a world-class experience and opens up the Shire's hinterland as a premium tourism destination."
Proposed works include:
- Streetscape upgrades, including the introduction of street plantings, garden beds, and footpath treatments. Shared pedestrian and traffic zones will also be created in core retail and commercial areas, with a focus on improving pedestrian amenity and safety
